Theft is the unlawful taking of the personal property of another individual or business. Theft crimes can be separated into federal theft crimes and state theft crimes, and depending on the circumstances, can be either misdemeanors or felonies.
Under New York Penal Code, the crime of theft is aggressively prosecuted. Various factors influence the penalties, and a conviction may involve serious penalties such as lengthy state prison sentences with mandatory minimum prison terms. Under New York law, the various types of theft charges carry differing fines, potential jail sentences, and other penalties as dictated by a judge. If you are charged with theft, it’s important to seek experienced legal counsel who can clearly explain all possible outcomes to you.
Examples of Theft Crimes in New York
An individual charged with a theft must understand the severity of their theft charge and whether it’s a felony or misdemeanor. The following are some of the most common theft crimes in New York. Having the right criminal defense attorney is crucial no matter what the theft charges are.
Theft by Taking: taking someone else’s property that does not belong to you with the intent to keep the property. Shoplifting is a common example. (NY Penal Code § 155.25)
Theft of Services: avoiding payment for a rendered service or using a stolen form of payment. Not paying for your subway ticket or cab fare is an example. (NY Penal Code § 165.15)
Grand Larceny: stealing the property of another person, valued at $1,000 or more, with the intent of depriving that person of such property including through embezzlement, tricking, lying, or extortion. (NY Penal Code § 155.05)
Identity Theft: using another person’s personal identifying information (their name, identifying number, or credit card number) without their permission to commit fraud or other crimes. (NY Penal Code for first degree, § 190.80, second degree, § 190.79, third degree § 190.78)
Theft by Misapplication of Property: knowingly possessing personal property of another pursuant to an agreement that the same will be returned to the owner at a future time. (New York Penal Code § 165.00)
Receiving Stolen Property: receiving property that you know or should have known was stolen. (New York Penal Code § 165.40)
Armed Robbery: theft by which the perpetrator uses a weapon in the crime. (New York Penal Code § 160.15)
Charged with a Theft Crime? You Need to Hire a Criminal Attorney
Being charged with a theft crime is serious and can be stressful. Though the punishments for theft crimes differ, any conviction has the potential to impact your permanent record and affect you for the rest of your life.
Those facing criminal theft charges need the expertise of Adam Bolotin, a criminal defense attorney that knows the ins and outs of the criminal justice system. Adam Bolotin has many years of experience representing clients facing serious criminal charges, including theft. If you or a loved one are facing theft charges, Contact Adam Bolotin today by calling 646-368-8688 or click here to schedule a free consultation.
